Methimazole (Methimazole)
Overview of Methimazole
Methimazole is antithyroid drug that is employed for the preparation of the hyperthyroid patient for surgery and for the total treatment of hyperthyroidism. Methimazole is the active metabolite of carbimazole and is given by mouth. Chemically Methimazole is 1, 3-dihydro-1-methyl-2H-imidazole-2-thione.
Indication of Methimazole
Indications
Contraindication of Methimazole
Methimazole is contraindicated in conditions like Bone marrow depression,Agranulocytosis,Destructive hyperthyroidism.
Side Effects of Methimazole
The severe or irreversible adverse effects of Methimazole, which give rise to further complications include Hepatitis, Aplastic anemia, Vasculitis, Lupus like syndrome, Drug fever, Hypothyroidism, Hypoprothorombinemia.,Methimazole produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Agranulocytosis. which are responsible for the discontinuation of Methimazole therapy.,The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Methimazole are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Headache, Drowsiness, Nausea, Skin rash, Arthralgia, Hair loss, Edema, Loss of taste.
Precautions of Methimazole
Excessive dose of antithyroid should not be used, because it may cause hypothyroidism or goiter. Treatment with methimazole should be discontinued immediately if there is any clinical or lab. evidence of neutropenia. It is not recommended to use high dose during pregnancy or lactation. Before having an emergency treatment or surgery including dental surgery, tell the doctor about the use of the drug.